Carolyn Sue Tackett

The family of Carolyn Sue Tackett is saddened to announce her passing on February 9, 2026 at the age of 77. Born on April 26, 1948, Carolyn was the beloved daughter of the late Homer Ray Hatfield and Icee Mae (Dillon) Hatfield. She grew up in the city of River Rouge and spent her life rooted in the Downriver community, where she built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Earnest Clifford “Cliff” Tackett, who passed on February 17, 2025. Their love story began at a restaurant in River Rouge and was truly love at first sight. They shared over 60 beautiful years of marriage, building a life centered on family, faith in one another, and simple joys. Even after Cliff’s passing, Carolyn carried his love with her in everything she did.

A proud and devoted mother, Carolyn found her greatest joy in caring for her family. She was a wonderful homemaker whose home was always welcoming, warm, and full of the comforting smells of home-cooked meals and fresh-baked treats. She loved gardening and canning, often sharing the fruits of her labor with those around her. Her kitchen was the heart of the home—a place where stories were shared, laughter was constant, and everyone felt cared for.

Carolyn is lovingly remembered by her children: Dorinda Tackett; Michele Mack-Hudgin (Daryl Hudgin); and Kimberly Fisher (Matt Betley). She was a cherished grandmother to Adam McKenna (Angela McKenna), Brent McKenna (Stephanie Cogo), Bailey Castiglione (Tyler Castiglione), Aaron Mason, Mariah Fisher, Emily Albers (Brandon Albers), and Claire Mason. Her heart overflowed with love for her great-grandchildren: Landon McKenna, Sophia McKenna, Kayden Douglas, Harper Castiglione, and Blake Castiglione, who brought her endless pride and joy.

She is also survived by her dear friend, Carol Politi, who held a special place in her heart, and her faithful companion, her beloved dog Cooper, who rarely left her side.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her siblings: Vivian Treadway, Ray Hatfield, Phillip Hatfield, Juanita Wade, Helen Wingo, Blanch Cooley, and Naomi Binion. Though many loved ones welcomed her home, her legacy lives on through the family she nurtured and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and gentle spirit.

Above all, Carolyn treasured her children and grandchildren. Her love was steady, patient, and unconditional. She will be remembered for her warm smile, her nurturing heart, her strong devotion to family, and the way she made everyone feel at home in her presence.

Carolyn Sue Tackett leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, family, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Please share your memories, photos, and condolences in Carolyn's Guestbook below.

In accordance with Carolyn's final wishes, she will be joining her husband at Michigan Memorial Cemetery.

Entombment will take place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Please join us near the front gates.